Las Heras, Argentina, to Fine Traffic Violators Using WhatsApp Evidence

The Municipality of General Las Heras, Argentina, is implementing a new system called the “Mountain Plan” to deter traffic violations, particularly on National Route 7. This initiative allows citizens to submit photos and videos of infractions via WhatsApp, leading to potential fines for offenders. The measure, formalized through municipal decree No. 240/2026, focuses on dangerous maneuvers such as overtaking on double yellow lines, overtaking on curves and driving against traffic flow – actions prohibited by Law 9,024 that pose an immediate risk to others.

How the System Works

Under the Mountain Plan, residents and drivers can report traffic violations by sending audiovisual evidence to one of two dedicated WhatsApp lines: +54 261 2649239 and +54 261 7160393. Technical staff from Alta Montaña will analyze the submitted material to determine if a clear infringement has occurred. If the evidence is sufficient, authorities will intercept the vehicle at checkpoints located between Uspallata and Las Cuevas within the jurisdiction of Las Heras.

According to Mauro Homan, the Legal and Technical Secretary of the municipality, the system prioritizes clear and identifiable evidence. “The important thing is that the video is sufficiently clear and categorical so that the vehicle can be identified, the license plate, the brand, the color can be seen. When in doubt, the official is not going to stop him,” Homan stated.

Applicable Fines (2026)

Fines will be issued according to Traffic Law No. 9,024 from Mendoza, with updated values for 2026:

• Minor offenses (100 UF): $50,000
• Serious offenses (700 UF): $350,000 (includes unexpected or zigzag maneuvers, U-turns, and parking on the shoulder)
• Very serious faults (1000 UF): $500,000 (includes driving without a license, without insurance, without a seat belt, using a cell phone while driving, and drinking mate)

Due Process and Data Protection

The municipality assures that the system adheres to due process, the presumption of innocence, and the right to defense before the Municipal Administrative Traffic Court. The processing of images and personal data will comply with current data protection regulations, ensuring confidentiality and secure storage.

Expansion Plans

The municipality intends to expand the system to address other difficult-to-detect violations, such as illegal dumping in the Alta Montaña region. “If this dynamic is successful, we intend to extend it to other infractions. It is important that the neighbor gets involved. Add to security, environmental control and all together we build a better department,” Homan added. The municipality has been sporadically applying these sanctions for the past year and has now established a formalized process.

National Route 7 and Regional Context

National Route 7 (Ruta Nacional 7 Carretera Libertador General San Martín) is a major road in Argentina, stretching 1,224 km (761 miles) from Buenos Aires to the border with Chile. It serves as a crucial link between the Atlantic coast and the Andes, crossing the provinces of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, Córdoba, San Luis, and Mendoza. The section within the jurisdiction of Las Heras is particularly important as it connects to Chile via Paso Internacional Los Libertadores.